Resurfacing your tennis court can seem like an overwhelming project. But there are ways to keep costs down and still get the best quality result. For example, hiring a contractor with plenty of experience is important. A contractor will know how to properly repair and prepare the surface for resurfacing, which can save money in the long run. In addition, they’ll also know how to deal with various factors that can impact your tennis court resurfacing cost.
Whether you have an asphalt, clay or synthetic grass tennis court, it’s a good idea to resurface the surface every four to eight years. This keeps the tennis court looking fresh, improves the playing surface, and extends the life of the court. During resurfacing, the contractor will replace worn out rubber material, fill cracks and low spots, correct drainage issues, thoroughly clean the court from moss, fungus and other debris, and apply an acrylic resurfacing system.
The top tennis court resurfacing prices are determined by the surface material, the size of the court and the type of repairs needed. For example, a hard court made of acrylic or concrete will be more expensive to resurface than a soft surface. Similarly, if your court requires extensive repairs, such as replacing the entire surface or repairing structural damage to the ground, the price will be higher.
Labor makes up 70% to 80% of the total cost of resurfacing a court. The contractor will spread a resurfacing agent over the existing court surface using a hand-held squeegee. This takes a lot of physical effort and must be done precisely to ensure an even surface. While there are kits available to do resurfacing yourself, it’s generally best left to professionals.
The amount of crack repair on your court will influence the cost as well. Traditional crack fillers provide a temporary solution, while epoxy coatings and fiberglass reinforcement will provide longer-lasting results. Water damage on a tennis court can also increase the cost. Standing water leaves mineral deposits on the court surface, which can create depressions or “bird baths” that should be repaired immediately to prevent injury to players.
Resurfacing a tennis court typically takes 3 to 6 days, depending on the size of the court and repairs that are necessary. Once the repairs are complete, the contractor can paint the lines. The line paint is a specialized thick acrylic, sometimes rubberized coat that seals the surface and increases the cushion. It usually costs $250 to $600 to paint the lines.
Many homeowners are tempted to do their own resurfacing, especially if they have an asphalt court. However, this is a dangerous and time-consuming project that should be left to the professionals. Inexperienced DIYers are likely to make mistakes that could lead to major damages to the court, and it’s important for anyone who wants a safe, professional-looking tennis court to hire a pro. It’s also a good idea to compare quotes from several contractors and verify their credentials. Make sure the company has a valid business license and liability insurance before making a decision.